Baptist Health Foundation Paducah

Looking at Baptist Health Paducah today, one would never imagine there was a time when the hospital stood as an empty shell with weeds surrounding its frame. In fact, during its earliest years, some commented that the people who initiated the building had more faith than money. However, faith can move mountains and in the hospital’s case, it moved a few weeds as well.

This vision that would later become Baptist Health Paducah began as early as 1945 when the Rev. George Phillips originated a seven-member committee for the purpose of building a hospital. Three years later, a groundbreaking ceremony was held with the theme “Building for the Glory of God and Suffering Humanity." 

The vision became a reality in 1953 when Baptist Health Paducah (Western Baptist Hospital) opened its doors with 117 beds, two operating rooms, a pharmacy and laboratory. In the years that followed, the hospital experienced its ups and downs, but by 1973 had solidified its prominence in the community. 

To continue those donors’ vision of quality health care, the Baptist Health Foundation Paducah was established giving families and individuals the opportunity to make financial contributions to support needed services, facilities and advanced technologies.

 WHY IS THE FOUNDATION NEEDED?

As Medicare and Medicaid payments are decreasing, charity care is increasing. Baptist Health Paducah spent $10.2 million in charity care for 2012 and the amount keeps rising. Operational expenses are increasing and technology is advancing. The foundation is funding this gap.

100% of all dollars go to Baptist Health Paducah to help fund programs and services.

The foundation is instrumental in supporting patient care needs. Over the past few years, the foundation has provided support to help build the Baptist Heart Center, purchase equipment for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and construct new surgical suites and waiting room.  The foundation provides annual education to women and to youth.  Events such as the annual Open Your Heart and Kick Up Your Heels event helps educate women while the foundation provides four “carnivals of health” annually reaching more than 800 sixth graders.